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Laureus USA Launches Sport for Good Dallas

On July 30, 2026, Laureus Sport for Good USA unveiled an exciting initiative called Sport for Good Dallas. This program is part of the global Sport for Good Cities network, aimed at empowering young people in the Dallas metro area through access to quality sports. By uniting nonprofits, businesses, philanthropic endeavors, civic leaders, and educational institutions, this initiative aspires to cultivate an environment where every young individual can thrive through sports.

Purpose of Sport for Good Dallas

The primary goal of Sport for Good Dallas is to reinforce the youth sports ecosystem in the area. This initiative enjoys the backing of several influential founding funders, including Lyda Hill Philanthropies and the Sixth Street Foundation, among others. Their support allows Laureus USA to forge a path that prioritizes investment in local organizations rather than establishing new programs from scratch. Instead, it seeks to bolster the existing entities that are already making a significant impact in the community.

Executive Director of Laureus USA, Ben Schornack, asserted, “Over the past few years, Laureus USA has steadily built relationships in Dallas. We've gotten to know the extraordinary organizations and leaders transforming young people's lives through sport.” Schornack believes that Sport for Good Dallas represents a long-term commitment to investing in such community leaders, facilitating collaboration, and creating sustainable opportunities for youth.

Funding and Grant Opportunities

As part of its launch, Laureus USA has initiated a Request for Proposals (RFP) aimed at eligible sport-based youth development organizations in the Dallas area. The organization plans to provide approximately seven to ten grants, each ranging between $15,000 and $20,000, to empower local initiatives that align with the goals of Sport for Good Dallas.

Selected organizations will not only receive funding but will also integrate into a broader network that provides opportunities for collaboration, leadership development, and capacity building. This supportive environment is instrumental in perpetuating a unified vision for youth sports development within Dallas.

A Collaborative Alliance

Sport for Good Dallas commenced with considerable support from a variety of funds and organizations committed to enhancing youth services through sports. Alan Cohen, the Founder and CEO of the Child Poverty Action Lab, emphasized the unique role that sports play in the lives of children, stating, “Sport reaches Dallas children in a way almost nothing else does.”

Furthermore, Laureus USA has partnered with the Addy Foundation Center on Research and Evaluation (CORE) at Southern Methodist University. This partnership aims to establish baseline data, create a long-term evaluation framework, and assess the initiative's impact over time, enhancing transparency and accountability.

Central to the initiative’s success is the formation of a coalition comprising 17 founding member organizations, which collectively aid in guiding the program's priorities and activities. This coalition emphasizes collaboration, shared learning, and a unified effort to strengthen the youth sports framework across Dallas.

Upcoming Launch Events

The launch of Sport for Good Dallas kicked off with two significant events aimed at fostering collaboration among stakeholders. An initial Coalition Meet & Greet offered youth sports organizations the chance to connect, share ideas, and establish fruitful relationships.

In the evening, a Launch Reception was held, commemorating the partnerships that facilitated the initiative’s inception while contemplating future opportunities. Distinguished guests, including Olympic gold medalist and Laureus USA Board Member Michael Johnson, attended the evening event, adding to its prestige.

Get Involved

Laureus USA invites various stakeholders, including organizations, community leaders, and potential supporters, to participate in the Sport for Good Dallas movement. There are multiple avenues to engage:

• - Apply for Funding: Eligible organizations can explore funding opportunities through the inaugural grant application process.
• - Join the Coalition: Organizations committed to promoting youth access to sports are encouraged to join the coalition, fostering community support and collaboration.
• - Support the Future: Philanthropic partners and individuals interested in contributing to the initiative can visit Laureus USA’s website for more information.

Conclusion

Laureus Sport for Good USA’s project in Dallas is not merely about sports; it embodies a vision of empowerment, collaboration, and long-term investment in the community. With initiatives that boost existing organizations and foster a supportive network, Sport for Good Dallas stands poised to significantly impact the lives of young people through the power of sport.